Modi to visit Shanghai in May, Indian diaspora plans Madison Square Garden-style event

BEIJING: The Indian community in China is working on a plan to hold a major event felicitating Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Shanghai next month. The event, which is being modeled along the lines of Modi's Madison Square Garden event in New York in September last year, will include a speech by the Prime Minister.

"There is a lot of excitement among the people here who want to listen to the Prime Minister. We are making arrangements for 3,000 to 4,000 people," Amit Waikar, president of the Indian Association in Shanghai, told TOI.

The event will have participation from Indian associations in seven Chinese cities including those in Beijing and Guangzhou, he said.

The date of Modi's visit has not yet been announced but he is expected to come to Beijing in mid May and visit Shanghai two days later. Modi, who will be accompanied by Indian ambassador, Ashok Kantha, is also expected to meet Chinese businessmen in Shanghai.

A notification sent out by the Indian Association in Shanghai told its members, "You now have the opportunity to be a part of a similar historic event in China". A contribution of 100 rmb (Rs 1000) is being sought from each person attending the event.

"It is free for Indian students studying in Chinese universities. We want them to listen to the Prime Minister and feel motivated to contribute to nation building," Waikar said. Arrangements for transport and snacks will also be made for students attending the event.

The event will include a cultural program, mostly by children of Indians living in Shanghai. The participants will get an opportunity for a stage rehearsal of sorts during a Bal Divas program this month, which has attracted 107 children artists.

The program including the venue is being finalized in consultation with the Indian embassy and security agencies.

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